Anna Karenina Lesson Plan

Anna claims that Karenin is incapable of loving her. What does she mean by this? Do you think her statement is true?

Possible points of discussion include (but are not limited to):

• What does it mean to Anna to "love" someone? What does it mean to her husband?
• What feelings does Karenin have for his wife?
• Is Karenin concerned about Anna's well-being? Is Vronsky?
• Why is Karenin so concerned about how his marriage appears to outsiders?
• Anna appears to want a lover who will become jealous, or even violent, at an act of infidelity. What does this say about Anna?

What is Karenin's philosophy concerning jealousy for one's spouse? What do you think of his views on this...